Salvatore "Uncle Sal" Cupo

March 25, 1932 – March 10, 2025
Salvatore Cupo, affectionately known as "Everyone's Uncle Sal," passed away peacefully at the age of 92, surrounded by the love and light of his family. A cherished husband, brother, uncle, and friend, he touched countless lives with his kindness, humor, and generous spirit.
Born in Rochester, NY, on March 25, 1932, Sal lived a life defined by dedication-to his country, his craft, and his loved ones. He proudly served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War and later in the Reserves. His deep respect for fellow service members led him to dedicate 30 years to the Honor Guard, ensuring that those who served were honored with dignity.
Professionally, Sal spent his career at Kodak and later Harris, but his true passion lay in woodworking. A master craftsman, he built furniture with skill, precision, and love, leaving behind pieces that will be treasured for generations. Whether fixing, building, or creating, Sal's hands were always busy, and his heart was always open.
Sal's greatest joy was his family. He is survived by a loving network of nieces, nephews, and extended relatives, including:
Sister in law Penny Cupo, brother in law Richard Merlau,(JoAnn) numerous nieces and nephews: Marianna Kinz (Ray Kinz), Carole Cupo, Sheila Duff, Pat Cupo, Jr., Betty Jane McElwain, Judy Brondon (John Brondon), Jeanne Faber, Albert Cupo, Linda Cupo, Sharon Wetzel (Bob Wetzel), Noreen Dettman (Brian Dettman), Laurie Harris (Roland Harris), Richard Merlau (Lauraline Merlau), Tracy Merlau, Joann DeLano, Patricia Merlau (Steve Flagg), along with 34 great-nieces and nephews and 32 great-great-nieces and nephews.
He is reunited in eternal peace with his beloved wife of 34 years, Rosemarie Cupo, his parents Onorato and Mary (DeMase) Cupo, and his siblings Frank Cupo (Loretta), Patrick Cupo (Carol), Armando "Elmer" Cupo (Grace), Albert Cupo (Shirley), Earl Cupo and Grace Merlau, as well as his nephew Thomas Merlau and niece Sandy Cupo. A special thank you to Paula Fantone & the incredible staff at the VA home floor 7A.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Sal's honor may be made to:
Grace the Arts, a non-profit organization founded in honor of his Sister, Grace Merlau and Sister-in-Law Grace Cupo. Donations will be directed to a scholarship in his name for a Tech/Scene Building Scholarship. Checks made to Grace the Arts send to: 121 Altee Drive Rochester NY 14626
Monroe County American Legion Honor Guard, Inc. P.O. Box 15493, Rochester, NY 14615
Friends may call Friday (March 14th) 4-7 PM at Vay-Schleich and Meeson, 1075 Long Pond Road. His Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday (March 15th) 9:30 AM at St. Charles Borromeo Church. Entombment, Holy Sepulchre Cemetery with Military Honors.
Sal was a man of integrity, warmth, and unwavering generosity. His laughter, wisdom, and craftsmanship will be deeply missed, but his legacy lives on in the hearts and homes of those he loved.
Rest easy, Uncle Sal. Your work here is done, but your memory will never fade.